BA (Hons) - Outdoor and Experiential Learning (Top Up)

How you will learn

The programme builds on the theoretical and practice base established within a Foundation Degree to develop informed, critical viewpoints of contemporary issues in outdoor learning. Debates such as the relative benefit of adventure, place-based or environmental activities in promoting personal and social development will be explored in depth. The need to generate authentic learning experiences in order to promote meaningful outdoor learning will be examined along with how such experiences can be designed and facilitated. Traditional views on the potential for outdoor learning to influence thinking at a personal and societal level, will be examined in the light of current research and writing.

A variety of pedagogical approaches will be used, involving opportunities to experiment with and critique different learning paradigms. An experiential focus will encourage students to develop and build on practice from previous years’ study while an increased emphasis on independent research will support more robust critical thinking. The importance of reflection in both personal and professional development that is strongly supported within the outdoor sector will be explored fully in central modules.

This will provide a bridge from the more vocational or practical focus of Foundation Degrees to the theoretical understanding required of an honours degree. Further support in this substantial area of study will be given through taught sessions in research skills and one to one supervision with a member of the academic team whose own research supports the subject area. Students are encouraged to engage more fully with their own interests within the subject area through optional modules that explore current research in the relevant area. Projects will include live work, with both other students and, where possible, with external clients.

How you will be assessed

A variety of teaching and learning methods are employed throughout the programme to ensure the acquisition and development of appropriate concepts, knowledge and skills. They reflect the diversity of professional outdoor and experiential learning delivery methods. These include traditional methods such as practical coaching, lectures and seminars as well as more experiential methods such as problem-based learning and debates. Throughout the degree students will be expected to be actively involved in their learning and will be given activities that encourage ‘deep’ rather than ‘surface’ learning.

Digital technologies are harnessed in the assessments of modules with students being encouraged to use presentation software packages such as Powerpoint/PREZI, as well as other Microsoft Office products. In addition to this, students are encouraged to use digital technologies (Blogs, Podcasts etc) in some Portfolio assessments such as in HSOO6013 Outdoor Education Contexts where students are asked to create an outdoor learning experience for others.

Tuition Fees

2025 - 2026

• £9,535 - UK
• £14,900 - International

2024-2025:

• £9,250 - UK
• £13,575 - International

The figures above don't include accommodation and living costs.

Tuition fees are set annually and are subject to review each year. The University may therefore raise tuition fees in the second or subsequent years of a course, in line with inflation and/or the maximum permitted by law or Government policy. Students will be notified of any changes as soon as possible.

International Finance

At the University of Cumbria, we offer affordable tuition fees for international and EU students looking to study at one of our main four campuses. No matter your choice of course or career path, our International Team is here to support you.

Additional Costs

There will be some additional costs. For example all students will need to purchase stationery and may wish to purchase some text books. Extra costs may also be applicable to cover field trips, membership fees etc. although such features are usually options within the course.

Books are reviewed annually and are therefore subject to change, course welcome information will provide you with an indicative list for the year.

Books and Journals

Most core text books are available via the University's library, however students may wish to buy copies of any texts used to support your learning on your course. This could cost between £50 - £100 per year.

Stationery

Students should budget for stationery and consumables for your own personal use. This should include notebooks, pens and pencils for taking notes in class and/or in the field. Students should also budget for the purchase of USB pen drives, as well as occasional printing and photocopying costs incurred in the preparation or submission of coursework. Whilst you will choose how much you need, expect to pay around £30 - £40 per year for these items.

Clothing and Equipment

You’ll be spending a lot of time out in the field, so it’s important to consider weatherproof items such as coats and trousers and sturdy walking boots. You’ll need a rucksack, ideally with a waterproof cover and plenty of warm, outdoor clothing. You might want to bring a thermal flask and a lunchbox for when you are out in the field.